Classroom of The Elite (v7.5)

Youkoso Jitsuryoku Shijou Shugi no Kyoushitsu e Volume 7.5 Author: Kinugasa Shougo Illustrator: Tomose Shunsaku Translated by Anon from 4chan Edited by ---

Prologue My First Winter. Outside, even as morning came, snow continued to fall. The 25th. The world was right in the midst of Christmas. Around the world, all over, will be overflowing with people spending time with precious family members or lovers. Even in this school, even though it's only a few, there are lovers like that too. As the promised time drew closer, I get my body ready. "........it's already been more than 8 months huh?". The passage of time ever since I enrolled in this school, is really fast. I wonder if it means that I enjoyed this school just that much. As I opened up the window that leads to the veranda slightly, a cold wind blew in. At the same time as that, the laughing voices of girls also came into my room. It seems from now, they will be heading over to Keyaki Mall to play. "I should head out soon too". As I noticed it was already past 11:30, I shut the window. Today is the day of my promised date with Satou Maya. In this one day, whether something will change or not........is something I don't know. But at the very least, I believe this one day will be a significant one for me. If not, I wouldn't even think of going on a date. To fall in love with someone. To think of someone as precious to you. Just by spending time with each other, to share happiness with one another. They become an irreplaceable existence to you. Those sorts of feelings and events, I wonder if I will be able to experience them too.

This small story of the winter vacation, the curtains open on the night of the 23rd before Christmas Eve .

Chapter 1 The Arrow of Love Part 1 The 23rd of December. Clear skies. Waking up in the morning was extremely pleasant. It was almost unbelievably refreshing, and even though I had just gotten up. I was wrapped up in comfort and it felt as though I were still in a dream. It was the first change that occurred to me. So, what changed? If people ask me that, I would resolutely answer 'No'. But, it's not like nothing's changed. The truth is, there had been a change. A dramatic change. I, Karuizawa Kei, no longer have a horrible past chaining me down. To be more precise, it's not quite that. I have gained a power that won't lose to the past chaining me down. That is, yesterday, the events of the closing ceremony that ended the second semester. I was called out by Ryuuen and the others, and received acts of bullying. It sounds lame when I put it to words like this but it is a fact that it happened. I hit rock bottom. At this school I ran away to seeking salvation, I thought I would once again be dropped down into hell. And then, I heard various things. And amongst those, the shocking one was, that Manabe and the others who bullied me were in fact guided by Kiyotaka. At first I despaired, and even anger came out. But.....in the end I was saved. By the hands of Kiyotaka. The ones waiting for me as I safely descended from the rooftop were the former student council president and Chabashira-sensei. It wasn't like they had anything to say to me, it was just their concern so that the eyes of unrelated people would not fall on me. Honesty, without their care, I doubt I would have safely made it back to the dormitory. The only thing they told me was that those two were acting based on Kiyotaka's instructions. I think it's because they realized it was the only way to calm me down. Those events on the rooftop. The seeds that the me who was bullied by Manabe

and the others had planted. If I had the power to shake off my past, I would have been more resolute then. It would have ended without what happened back in middle school being found out.......no, that's not it. Basically, I was in the wrong. To act tough, I continued to take on an arrogant attitude. Towards that, even if Manabe and the others feel displeasure it couldn't be helped. It was a method I chose to avoid bullying. And the demerits of that. "Fuu.......". A sigh like that came out. But it's not a bad sigh at all. How should I put it? It was a sigh filled with emotion, no. I can't really put it into words well. There's only one thing I'm certain about. That is, even when I'm asleep, even when I'm awake. Inside my thoughts, Kiyotaka is always there. Ever since yesterday, it was burned into my mind and I couldn't part from it. "...more like, mou, how should I put it, this is foul play.......". Even though my body temperature should be normal, for some reason, my body became hot. To suppress the amount of heat in my body, I closed my eyes. Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. 1st year Class D. At first I didn't even think anything of him. Just a classmate without a shadow. Sometimes the topic of him being cool did arise, but I was never interested. And besides, those classmates soon forgot about Kiyotaka. In our modern world, communication skills are a large factor in one's popularity. That is something that is fundamentally lacking in Kiyotaka. No matter how good he is at sports, if it's not accompanied by other elements, the degree of his popularity will not extend any further. That's why with Yousuke-kun in the lead too, Class A's Tsukasaki-kun and Class B's Shibata-kun are more popular by an order of magnitude. But the real Kiyotaka is not bad at socializing, he's really smart, he's very mature, he's very rational, he's also good at sports to the point he won't lose even to the senior students, and also, he's strong to the point it's almost unbelievable.....there are also ruthless and cruel parts to him, but......even so, in the end, he'll save me.

"Haa.......!?". Could it be, I, before I knew it, about Kiyotaka--- "No, no, no, no. No way, no way!". Holding my face which had become red, I shake my head intensely left and right. As my face became red, I panicked......I'm almost like a maiden in love. It's not like I'm denying romance. I'm also a girl who wants to properly fall in love too. But, how should I put it, there's a part of me that cannot admit that I'm looking at Kiyotaka with those eyes. "That's right. It obviously can't be the case. It's because of him that I experienced terrible things.......". On the contrary, I'd like him to thank me for not holding a grudge against him. On top of that, to steal my heart away too, I cannot forgive such indulgency. Standing in front of the mirror, I combed my hair which had become frizzled after waking up. "But, I'm also too much of a good person, aren't I?". Even if they happened to bear the fault, I wonder if an ordinary person would forgive Kiyotaka for what he did? Probably impossible. It's obvious that it'd be impossible. On the contrary, they would probably hold a grudge against him. It's only because it happened to be a deeply generous person like me that he was forgiven. Just be satisfied with that, Kiyotaka. Speaking out loud like that in my head, I shook off those wrongful delusions. It's just, I cannot breach the subject of having forgiven him already in front of Kiyotaka. On the contrary, I wonder if I should go bother him a bit. Pretending to be angry at him a bit for having been manipulated sounds good, after all. And also probably, the next time I see Kiyotaka's face, true anger might actually emerge too. As I was mulling over that, a chat arrived on my phone. "Today at 11 o'clock, thanks in advance Karuizawa-san".

"Ahh, I see. There was that". It was a contact from my classmate, Satou Maya-san. Before tomorrow, the 24th, as a notice today, I received a contact from Satou-san telling me she wanted to meet me as she had something to consult me about. Normally, because I got along with a different group from that of Satou-san, our exchanges were by no means, deep. Of course, as classmates, we do get along fairly well, but it's the first time I've been called out like this to meet with her. "But even so, I sure am healthy". Yesterday, underneath the cold sky, from the top of my head I had countless buckets of water dumped on me and even though such a horrible thing happened, I'm still perfectly healthy to the point I'd like to praise myself for it. Naturally, after being chilled down to my core I took a bath to warm myself up, but a normal girl probably would've caught a cold and even if they slept for three days straight it wouldn't be strange. "It's because I'm too used to such treatment.....just kidding". I realized that sort of masochistic talk smoothly come out. The 'me' up until yesterday. That is, the 'me' that had thought she had changed but in fact had not changed at all. I was always terrified of being bullied, always cowering. Deep inside my heart, a darkness had always been spreading out. But now, I can say it clearly. I wonder if I was able to change even a slight bit. Taking off my pajamas, and now in my underwear. At that moment, the scars carved into my white body inevitably came into sight. Even if I didn't want that, I would end up seeing it. Every day, I confronted these scars, my feelings sank and I started to want to die. But, I never minded them as much as I did yesterday. Even though I hated that scar that much, regretted that much and felt that much sadness. In just one day, I can't even believe I would change this much.

"But even so, I can't show this to a boy..........". If they happened to see such a scar, the opposite sex would end up drawing away. The body of a girl is supposed to be soft and fluffy and beautiful.....This would end up crushing that illusion. I'm sure even a hundred years worth of love would cool off. No, I had no intention of showing it to anyone else though.....I stored it away in my heart like that. It's just.....I might have not shown it on my expression.....but, Kiyotaka was different Even though he saw this scar of mine, he never even once spoke his disgust. Is it just that he didn't say it? Or was it just because it was dark on board the ship? Or just lying? Did he think deep inside that it was disgusting? Or could it be he really did not think it was disgusting at all? Affirmations and repudiations repeat inside my head. But there was no way an answer could be found for that. Just repeating my soliloquy, I realized something important. "Speaking of which that guy, he touched my body with his hands didn't he?". Back then, I didn't have time to think, but isn't this a splendidly unbelievable thing? He touched my thighs, my uniform was almost taken off.....I was treated like a germ or a pest by the girls, and I was not protected by the boys either. The whole class, the whole school year, did not even see me as a human, much less see me as a girl. Even though I've never even properly held hands with a boy before, what the hell has he done to me I wonder. "Really, mou, mou, mou! I'm thinking about it again! I'm such an idiot!". Once again, let's put a lid on the matter of Kiyotaka and seal it away. I'll do that. That was just an accident so I have to forget about it. I passed my hands through the cloth and smoothly proceeded with changing. Having taken some time to prepare, I headed towards the destination with a trot. The Keyaki Mall that welcomed the winter vacation was overflowing with students. Most of the students seem to have come here to play, as there were far more people than the usual holidays. "I guess that's true. There's nowhere else to play but here".

All the necessities have been gathered here so I have no complaints but there's no novelty here. Having somehow made it in time, called out to the Satou-san who was waiting with her phone in hand in front of the cafe that was our meeting spot. "Good morning, Satou-san". "Ahh, Karuizawa-san! Good morning!". Satou-san's eyes lit up as she waved her hands at me. Perhaps she went to the hairdresser but her hair was beautifully arranged. Just with that alone, I ended up imagining various things. It was yesterday night that Satou-san called me asking for consultation. Both my mind and body were worn out, but I kept quiet about that fact. Of course I would. The fact that I was called up to the rooftop and showered in cold water was something that 'never happened' as far as anyone's concerned. In other words, looking at it from Satou-san's perspective, I have to be the usual me. That's why although I could have turned down the consultation request, I decided to accept it. And besides.....since a while ago I've been curious about Satou-san's actions. "Sorry, for calling you out suddenly". "It's no big deal. Don't worry about it". "It's a great help to me if you say that". Together with Satou-san, who seemed happy, as planned we entered the shop. Although it was full, conveniently a pair happened to be leaving too in exchange so we were able to properly enter. "It's really crowded~". I said that out loud without thinking. It was exasperatingly successful. "In the winter vacation, I wonder if all the school years don't have anything like exams". Towards the Satou-san who said that, I too, had the same question.

During the summer vacation, we 1st year students immediately set out on a voyage on board a luxury cruiser. But, this time, from seeing students across all school years, it seems as though no special exams were being conducted. I wonder if this school, too, is giving us this service at least for the winter vacation. Or could it be that at the end of this year and the start of the next, some kind of exam would begin? If so, I'd hate it. "If you haven't eaten breakfast yet, order lots and lots ok? I'll pay for everything". Satou-san tells me not to hold back with a smile. And just as she said, I ordered an American scone and a cafe au lait, and the two of us, near the center of the shop, sat in a small table for two. "So what's the consultation you wanted from me?". A consultation that she'd go as far as to buy me a meal, I wonder if it's going to be a significant request. Correcting my posture slightly, I leaned in with my ears. "Hmm, yeah. The thing is, you see? The truth is......soon I'll be going on a date". Satou said then cut in with that. ".....date?". Even as I was surprised, I suppressed my tension and asked in return. "That's right". While blushing, Satou-san nodded two or three times towards me. I felt a bad premonition, as expected I've hit the mark. And her partner, if I'm not misreading this, is. "Umm, with who?". It seems Satou-san's been waiting for me to ask her that.

"It's Ayanokouji-kun, you see. It's a surprise.....right?". Satou-san murmured that, seemingly shy yet happy. Suddenly, I could feel a light tinnitus in my ears, but I pretended to be calm. Taking the scone I had just received into my hands, I bit off a larger bite than usual. A fragment broke off and fell onto the tray. I then poured the cafe au lait into my mouth which had become dry. "Heh.........so Satou-san's aiming for Ayanokouji-kun. That's a surprise~". Of course I had realized that Satou-san had fallen in love with Kiyotaka. But, as since she's never consulted me directly before, answering like that was the safest. "Right? I'm also a bit surprised by myself too. But, during the sports festival, there was the relay, right? Looking at his running figure, my heart was pounding, you see". Satou-san was speaking with such excitement to the point I felt embarrassed while listening to it. That figure of hers was indeed that of a 'Maiden in Love'. "But, doesn't he lack a presence? If it's Satou-san, there should be other, better boys more suited for you. Like, Tsukasaki-kun from the other class, how about him?". Even across our school year, he was hailed for a period of time as a considerably handsome guy. He's been a hot topic recently, how about him? I recommended that to her like that. "That's no good. It seems only a while ago, he's begun dating a senior student who attends the same club as him". I see. So he's already been taken, that's why I haven't heard any rumors about him. Even a popular idol on the television, male and female alike, as soon as they find themselves a lover, their popularity plummets.

"So that's how it is. Then, how about Satonaka-kun? He should be free even now, right?". "Yeah, I do think he's cool but......something's just not clicking with me there". Even though I suggested several other popular guys, Satou-san showed no signs of being moved at all. It seems Satou-san isn't judging Kiyotaka solely by his outer appearance. Really, at this rate it's almost like I'm saying Kiyotaka's outer appearance is inferior to that of Doujou-kun or Satonaka-kun......right now he doesn't stand out much but if you compete only by outer appearance alone, without a doubt Kiyotaka is top class. In other words, Satou-san, who's fallen in love, has realized that fact, huh......For boys and for girls alike, the outer appearance of their partner is their status. I'm going out with such a cool boy, I'm going out with such a cute girl, just with that alone one's personal evaluation will also rise. Just as I had gained more than I had imagined from going out with Hirata-kun. With this timing, if Satou-san were to go out with Kiyotaka, at this point, Satou-san's evaluation might also rise too. If Kiyotaka shows off his talent and starts standing out, than in itself would make his evaluation even higher than that of Hirata-kun. Kiyotaka's been gathering more attention ever since the relay but the current situation is, he's not gathering the attention of as many girls as expected. The expression of him normally having a quiet attitude and talking only with Horikita-san, those factors don't quite connect to the boom of the girls. Next, like Ike-kun and Yamauchi-kun, and Sudou-kun. Hanging out with friends like that who are seen in an exceedingly bad light by the girls is also a minus impression. In any case, up until now Satou-san shouldn't have had that much contact with Kiyotaka. But despite that, falling in love with him and all that after just one act in the relay, isn't it a bit too shallow? I know Kiyotaka much more than her. His true nature, or more precisely, his deep, dark nature. Satou-san should have no idea about that. Ahh, mou. This is wrong, this is wrong! That has nothing to do with

this. I have no reason to speak badly of Satou-san, and I'm in a position where I have to cheer her on. Why? Because I am Hirata Yousuke's girlfriend. Because I have no reason to interfere with someone else's romance. That is why I, as Hirata-kun's girlfriend, as the leader-like existence of the girls of Class D, I cut in to Satou-san. "Hearing this may seem a bit like that but, are you seriously aiming for him that much?". If I didn't know about Kiyotaka's identity, undoubtedly I would have asked something like that. "......yeah". In response to that question, Satou-san without any hesitation, answered with a nod. It seems she's hardened her resolve, and Satou-san was not approaching Kiyotaka as some joke. Such a thing, I had already long realized it though. "Isn't it a good thing that you've found someone you like? And besides, right now Ayanokouji-kun should be free too". "That's right, that's why I thought this might be my chance. If some other girl also falls in love with Ayanokouji-kun then.....I was thinking like that and I got into a hurry". If one consults a friend or a best friend regarding romance, there are fifty thousand episodes in this world of having the boy they like be stolen away. It's not a strange thing that Satou-san is being cautious of that. As for me who has a boyfriend that's competing for 1st or 2nd place in our school year, I would have assessed the risk of that happening being as low as possible. But even so, to think it would even come to a date during the winter vacation, this was beyond my expectations. That Kiyotaka, even though he didn't seem interested in Satou-san, even though the rooftop incident happened he still agreed to go out with her. The paper bag containing the straws, I unconsciously ended up tearing it apart.

"......could it be the consultation, has something to do with that date?". Hearing that, Satou-san's eyes lit up and she nodded. Ever since a while ago, she's been too dazzling. "Yeah. You know, like the secret behind making a date a success? I was wondering how I should do it. How did you end up dating Hirata-kun, I want you to tell me various things regarding that". In Class D, the only ones who have clearly announced their relationship were me and Yousuke-kun. Even if she sought help from her friends in the other classes, Kiyotaka, or rather Ayanokouji, who's that? Something like that is the most that could happen. In other words, Satou-san relying on me is also something that couldn't be helped. "Karuizawa-san, you started dating Hirata-kun soon after you enrolled right?". "Yeah. I guess so. It's nothing special though". "It is something special. It's really amazing, I really respect you for that!". Saying that, Satou-san, almost as if engulfing both my hands, grasped them. "That is why that skill, please instruct me in it!". "It's not something that can be called a skill though.....". In the first place, I cannot answer a single one of Satou-san's requests. The me who escaped from the ugly bullying of my middle school period approached him, having resolved to switch over from the bullied side to the side where I would not be bullied. Looking back on it, I was very lucky. It was also an act that stemmed from determining that Yousuke-kun was not that kind of person but it really was a high-stakes gamble. If, when I had asked him to let me take on the false girlfriend role, and he had refused me, the result would have been something different from what it is now. And not just harshly dumping me, he might have even exposed my bullied past to everyone. Yousuke-kun is someone who treasures harmony from the bottom of his heart, and is the type of person to make it into an ideal.

Feeling like he could save me by pretending to be my boyfriend, he gladly accepted it. That's why I accepted him, and chose to be protected under that umbrella of peace. The girlfriend of Yousuke-kun, who's the center of the class. That title was far more effective than I had imagined. At first, there was envy and grudges coming from the girls of the class, but that too, soon disappeared. Remembering what was done to me, I took a high-pressure attitude towards various students. Even in shopping, pestering for small change, things like that I traced them all. And so, I was able to make the throne of the leader of Class D's girls my own. But, the me who created a false status, clearly have things I can do and things I cannot do. That is why, even if Satou-san requests a romance lecture from me, there's nothing I can do to answer. For someone without any experience in romance, there's no way they would know the techniques of romance. Since we were dating, to make the fact that we are "dating" common knowledge, we repeatedly went on pretend dates, but my heart was not there. That's why I don't know what is right and what is wrong now. But I don't want to betray Satou-san's expectations. I don't want her to think I'm a newcomer to romance. If it were me from a while back, I would have probably boldly shown off the knowledge I heard from magazines or the television. Almost as if it were a date I had experienced, I would have been able to talkatively speak about it by replacing it with me. But, now it's gradually changing. Towards Satou-san, towards someone who's placed their trust in me, I don't want to make random statements like that. Recently, I had grown tired of the me who had been acting bullishly and arrogantly, for a moment, I wanted to talk about something true. But I cannot breathe a word about that. In this school, I have to remain Yousuke-kun's girlfriend and act boldly. That is why I have to continue to tell lies I don't want to tell. Do I really mean that? Right now, is Yousuke-kun's existence still truly necessary to me?

At a time like this, unnecessary thoughts like that were floating into my mind. The only dangerous elements to me at present, Manabe and Ryuuen's group, have been eliminated thanks to Kiyotaka's strategy (?). In other words, the story of the bullying will not come forth anymore. And besides, from now on, even if something were to happen, Kiyotaka will surely come and save me, I have that sense of safety too. The fact that I'm Yousuke-kun's girlfriend is a lump of privileges but if I remove that, I wonder if there is the possibility of having my status in this school robbed from me. Of course, if it becomes a matter of having been dumped by Yousukekun more or less that might be lame, but I feel like depending on the 2 of us talking it out, it will go well. If that happens, things will clear up for me and I will become free. And if I become free, I can finally pursue my true love. In other words, I cannot afford to be thinking such things now. Because the Satou-san in front of me is expecting a good answer from me while waiting. I can contemplate the meaning of continuing to go out with Yousuke-kun later. The unnecessary thoughts that have disturbed me countless times, this time, I will drive them into a corner. "After hearing you out what I thought is, instead of going on a trial date, Satou-san wants to go on a real date with Ayanokouji-kun with the intention of going out with him, right?". "Yeah". In other words, a date meant to seduce Kiyotaka. "What should I do to make it go well?". "Let's see!.......". Let's think seriously. A way for Satou-san to go out with Kiyotaka......umm, that guy, I wonder what needs to be done to seduce him.

He's an existence that's clearly divided from other men. I wonder if he'll be interested in ordinary romance.......or perhaps, he might surprisingly be the sort of guy that longs for that sort of ordinary romance? Since it can be taken either way, making a judgment on this is a difficult task. As such questions floated up and disappeared repeatedly in me, Satou-san brought out a phone. "I wonder if I was being too vague? Umm, you see, since I'm an amateur at this, I'd like to think of a date plan. Please help me with the decision". And while lowering her head, she shows me the date plan written on the phone's memo screen. Meet at 12 o'clock -> Lunch -> Movie Theater -> Shopping -> Confession underneath the Legendary Tree -> Present It seems overwhelmingly simple, but it was written like that. Firstly, I interjected with the thing I was most concerned about over everything else. "Wait a minute. Are you planning on confessing to him on the first date?". "I was thinking of going with the whole intention of hitting and breaking......only if the courage comes out on that day though". As I was thinking she should deepen her relationship with him more bit by bit, she went in with a short-term decisive battle that was far beyond my expectations. "Isn't it going too fast? I think it's not too late if you do it after 2, 3 dates. You might be able to realize some disagreeable aspects about your partner too". Of course, girls with romantic experiences sometimes seem to make decisions on the spot too. But Satou-san, in regards to romance, seems to be closer to a beginner, I think it's better for her to take it slowly. But, there's not much credibility in that coming from a fellow beginner like me........But she seems rushed about the result, or more like I felt as though she were prioritizing her charm.

Could it be, Satou-san might possibly want to make her girlfriend debut in the 3rd semester. "And also, what does this underneath the legendary tree mean? By any chance, is it one of those if you swear your love you'll be bound forevermore things?". I wonder if such an urban legend steeped tree exists in this school. Even if such a mysterious power exists, in this day and age where one cannot see their future, being guranteed to be bound together for 10 years or 20 years cannot be said only to be a good thing. If it turns out that the man you've married is a useless one to the point you want to divorce him, being forced to be married to him for life seems more like a curse. "It doesn't seem like it's that famous though, I found it while looking through the school's bulletin board. That, if you confess in front of that tree, it will definitely succeed. And what's more, there are quite a lot of reports like that". Heh........I didn't know about that. Since I've also become interested in that, I'll be investigating it. And when I did, it seems it really does exist, in the school's chatroom bulletin board, there were several cases where a confession went well that were written there. It seems when this school was first founded, some big shot donated it and it was transplanted here. It seems the age of that tree exceeds 8 years. "Speaking of which, there were several excellent trees like that weren't there.......". Normally I wouldn't even be conscious of such a tree. The time of confession has to be in the evening before the sun sets. From 4 o'clock in the evening to 5 o'clock in the evening. Around that time, the condition is that no one else must be around. If that condition is fulfilled, the confession has a 99% chance of succeeding, it seems. It did say 99%, but it's in an extremely fishy place. "But even so, isn't it quite difficult? The timing of this confession". "That's right, I guess. It says if someone else unrelated is there at the moment of confession, things won't go well".

In this time period, the presence of people is quite intense so the timing seems difficult. On top of that, it wouldn't be strange too if there were other boys and girls attempting to execute this legend. One would have to connect the conversation well, and guide it so that only the 2 of you would be left. Naturally, something like this is just a superstition, and I think of it as a superstition. But if it's to make a once-in-a-lifetime confession succeed, it's a feeling like grasping at straws. I too, if it comes to victory or defeat, would want to raise my possibilities even if it's only by 1%. "Hey umm, what's your reason for falling in love with Ayanokouji-kun?". "Ehh? Why are you asking?". "No, sorry. It's because I don't know anything about Ayanokouji-kun, you see. I wanted to get an image of him. About what part of him you fell in love with, like that. You know, if hear it, maybe it might be useful for my advice about your date plan, right?". As I asked her that, Satou-san whispers back while hiding her cheeks inside her hands, looking shy. "Umm---.....first of all, isn't he cool? Normally he's quiet and mature. And also, he runs very fast.......and in the tests too, he was above me so it's not like he's an idiot.....you know, I naturally think Hirata-kun is better than that but the other boys are all mostly childish". She's probably talking about Ike-kun and Yamauchi-kun and the others. Regarding that point, I'm also convinced. To the point I can't even believe we're the same age. Most of our male classmates are like children. That's why around this period, a large majority of girls become disillusioned with their classmates and go running towards their seniors. "T-The things I'm saying right now, keep it a secret from the other girls, ok? It'll be bad if they also realize how fine Ayanokouji-kun is. Besides, it'll also sound lame if rumors about me not being used to men were to be spread around".

"Is it fine to consult me though?". "Karuizawa-san's the girlfriend of Hirata-kun so that gives me peace of mind". It seems Hirata-kun's existence is a huge one. Satou-san is relying on me. It doesn't feel too bad that she's relying on me to this point......but of all things, why does it have to be about Kiyotaka? If this were about some other boy, I could have supported her with my honest feelings. I wouldn't have felt this bothered inside my heart. Is this what they call fate? "Hah.......". It ended up sighing all of a sudden. Different from the one in the morning, a heavy one. But having heard that, Satou-san's face became gloomy as I looked at her. "A-As I thought, I'm not bothering you, am I?". "No, sorry. That sigh just now really didn't mean anything like that. Really". I panicked and denied it, but inside my heart, I had been carrying that tone the whole time.......it's not like I'm in love with Kiyotaka or anything though. It's just, how should I put it, I have a special relationship with him. No matter what, that will always take precedence. But right now I need to overturn my thoughts and act for Satou-san's sake. I answer like that to myself many times over. "Then, let's revise the date plan a little, shall we? If you're going to be eating lunch together, it might be better if you do it after watching the movie. If things get awkward, you can always talk about the movie that way". "Umm, let me put down the plan Karuizawa-san thought up". Saying that honestly, Satou-san took out her phone.

The movie is probably already booked but for the sake of the flow it's better if he does it. Watching a movie right away after eating may cause you trouble if an unforeseen situation were to arise. And it'll also make you sleepy so that's a NG. I accessed the movie theater's HP. "And? When's the all-important date going to happen?". First of all, I need to check whether or not the time can be changed, if I don't start by confirming that nothing will start. "It's the day after tomorrow". "I see that's fine........wait, the day after tomorrow's the 25th though!". I almost stood up without thinking. I panickedly lowered my raised hips back onto the chair. "Hehehe". No, don't 'Hehehe' me........! The 25th of December. It's the 1 day that's most precious for men and women alike throughout the entire year. That Kiyotaka, giving the ok for a date on that 25th, what the hell is he thinking? Normally it's supposed to be the time lovers spend together to further deepen their relationships, and a day to confirm their love. It's not suited towards starting a relationship. It's not normal to use such a day for a date. Should have gently declined and moved the date to the 26th. If this were reversed, there's no mistaking that he would've incurred a considerable amount of displeasure. A boy who just wants to do lewd things, such a label should be stuck on him. I interjected fiercely like that inside my thoughts. "Fu, fu". ".......what's wrong, Karuizawa-san?".

"No, nothing. Don't worry about it". Why am I getting hot all on my own. For someone unrelated like me, no matter what day the 2 of them decide to have their date on, it's irrelevant. The concerned parties are free to decide. I should understand that. Ah mou, ever since a while ago, what's the matter with me? I became violently angry, towards my own thoughts. I gave those mistaken thoughts a double slap in the face and forcibly sealed them away. "The 25th huh........well I guess it's still better than the Eve tomorrow". The movie theater, too, seems as though it would be overwhelmingly packed more so on the Eve. They're probably going to spend the whole day together after watching the movie. Even though a lot of couples make use of it, looking at it in terms of the whole school, only 10% to 20% would be couples. As long as one doesn't care about the time and the positioning of their seats, it's possible for them to go as many rounds as they want. "About the movie, you watch it from 11:50 and it'll end around 13:30. So before 2 o'clock you have your meals and around 3 o'clock you leave the shop. After that, you adjust the time yourself and after 4 o'clock you confess. Something like that?". The result of roughly adjusting the time, this is probably for the best. Satou-san, too, doesn't seem to have any objections and she nodded satisfactorily. "After that, I think it's also better if you reserve your lunch. You probably want to take the seats near the windows, right?". Discounting lunch time, without a problem it can be done. "And also, if you reserve your orders ahead of time, they also make you things that are not on the menu". "So that's how it is, I didn't know about that.......as expected of Karuizawa-san".

If it's the day after tomorrow, that place too, will have good accomodation. Well, the truth is, it's great if the boy thinks of all these things though. This time, it's a stage for the sake of Satou-san's confession so this is fine too though. It's just, I don't know whether this was the right answer or not. It sounds pathetic when I repeat it but I've never gone on a real date before...... Part 2 I received such a consultation from Satou-san, and on the way back from the cafe. The two of us, while chatting away, headed towards the dormitory. "This morning it piled up quite a bit but it seems from tomorrow onwards, it will be snowing even more". Receiving such words from Satou-san, I looked around at the scenery surrounding me. Even though it had started to melt slightly, there were still snow remnants scattered about. If this continues, it might even be snowing all year round. Ahh---so it's snow. Speaking of which, it was about two years back. I pretended that some muddy snow was chocolate kakigori and stuffed it into my mouth. Nostalgically remembering those old memories, I recalled that. For some reason, I felt that was something from a long time ago. "I wonder what was so enjoyable about doing something like that". "Ehh?". "Sorry, sorry. I was just talking to myself. Sorry about that". Perhaps it's because the events of yesterday happened, but I always end up remembering that. And as I did, Satou-san's expression changed into a slightly hard one. I had thought it was because I had been talking to myself, but that didn't seem to be the case. "The thing is, I wasn't able to say it earlier but there's one more thing I want to ask you". "You've already started? So, don't hesitate to consult me".

I struck my chest with a 'don' and answered her like that. "Thank you, Karuizawa-san. Umm, well, I'm happy I got to go on a date but........". Perhaps she's harboring some anxieties towards her important date, but Satou-san continued. "Truth is, this is the first date I've ever gone on in my life....so, I don't know what I should do" "You've never gone out with another boy before?". Satou-san who looked embarrassed. Well, from the flow of our conversation, I did have a feeling that was the case but........ I thought a modern, trendy girl like Satou-san would have done it earlier so that was surprising. "I'm only telling this because it's you, Karuizawa-san, ok? Soon I'll be a 2nd year high schooler and if I still haven't gone on a date, if I told anyone else I'd definitely be made fun of. That I'm too slow. As expected, Karuizawa-san thinks so too?". "I-I guess so. You're a bit too slow. But doesn't it only mean that you haven't found someone you really liked? It can also mean that you're treasuring yourself". "It makes me happy you'd say that". While deceiving her like that, I followed up. Not to Satou-san but to myself. "And you see? I think I'd be too nervous and won't be able to properly hold things. That's why including Karuizawa-san and Hirata-kun.......I was thinkig if we could have a double date. To make sure things go well with me and Ayanokouji-kun, I want you to assist me!". She requested me like that. Not able to comprehend the contents of the proposal, for a moment, I was thrown into confusion.

"D-Double date? A-Assist?" "I should have really said this sooner, right? It's after I had various reservations about it". Satou-san who apologizes with a sorry expression. Reservations like that end after a few minutes anyways so it's not a big problem. The important thing is, to me, in other words, an existence without romantic experience, she's requesting the role of Cupid in love. I wonder if something as absurd as this could even be. "Is it.....impossible?". "That's---". Undoubtedly, I should decline. With the shallow knowledge I possess, mistakes will definitely be exposed. Ahh but, since this is also her first date for Satou-san maybe I can deceive her? Should I go formal here and pleasantly acquiesce? "As I thought, I think I'd like to spend Christmas alone together with Hirata-kun". "Ehh?". As I fretted over what to do, Satou-san again made an anxious face. I see. If it's ordinary lovers, a lot of them would be likely to spend tomorrow and the day after tomorrow together. If it were the usual me, I would have been able to discern that fact properly but my head was full of thoughts about the closing ceremony. "Like Karuizawa-san and Hirata-kun, I also want to become an ideal couple". Looking at it from the perspective of Satou-san who thinks I'm smoothly sailing through school life, this sort of request is neither strange nor distorted. But my heart was bothered. It doesn't have anything to do with Kiyotaka. It's not like I ever liked Yousuke-kun. And it's not like we were truly going out. A false couple. But, as long as we continue to be a false couple. Neither me nor Yousuke-kun will be able to find true love.

Chapter 2 Ibuki's One Misfortunate Day Part 1 This is a note of the events from 2 days prior to the Christmas date, on the morning of the 23rd. I was heading towards Keyaki Mall alone with a certain goal in mind. Swiftly heading over to a certain shop, I looked around for what I needed. "I've never taken the ones from here.........". Having looked up its reputation on the internet, as well as hearing it from the clerk, I chose about 2 of them. I put the items into a small paper bag and proceeded with the checkout. Amazed at the surprising expensiveness of each one of those items, I left the shop with the paper bag in hand and for now decided to head back to the dorm. All that's left is to stop by at the convenience store on the way back and buy some things and that'll be the completion of my goal. After that, I'll once again return to Keyaki Mall and watch a movie whose screening is about to end soon. That was my plan for this one day. However, due to contact from a certain person, that plan began to crumble. "How are you today, Ayanokouji-kun?". Even though it's a wide area, the school grounds is still a confined space. If I wander around like this I'm bound to encounter various students. Right before the exit of the mall, one girl called out to me. Carrying a cane, she walks slowly as she approaches me. 1st year Class A's Sakayanagi Arisu. She knows I'm from the White Room. And the daughter of this school's chairman. "You're going out this early? You're alone today, I see".

Normally Sakayanagi has an entourage accompanying her around, but I could not see anyone. "I came here to play with Masumi-san, but I haven't met her yet". Sakayanagi notices the existence of the paper bag in my hands. "Are you in ill health?". "No, not at all. As you can see, I'm healthy". Lightly spreading out both my hands, I appealed to her that I'm alone through overaction. And on top of that, I put the small paper bag into my pocket. "I'm glad. If you wouldn't mind, would you like to play together with me?". She extends an unbelievably unappreciated proposal to me. I don't even need to consider my response. "I'll have to decline. You're an existence that stands out after all". If I were to be seen playing with Sakayanagi, it would unnecessarily cause an uproar. "Fufu. That's a shame". It's obvious. If she wanted to make my circumstances common knowledge, she should have taken action a long time ago. But even against Ryuuen, she did not let slip even a single fact about me. Judging from that, I could tell that Sakayanagi intends to take me on alone. "Then would that mean there's no problem if we have a small chat while standing around here?". "To chat while standing around like this, what happened?".

"If I call him this he would get angry at me but Dragon Boy-san was searching for you, right? To be more precise, he was searching for the tactician who was manipulating the class from the shadows. What happened with that matter?". Right now, other than the parties involved, no one should yet know of the rooftop incident as well as its conclusion. However, it wouldn't be strange even if she managed to obtain a portion of that information. For instance--- "The students of Class C had a falling out, and it seems it's become a serious matter for them. Did you know?". That's right. The fact that Ryuuen and his group were injured in their fight against me. Since those facts are readily apparent, it's also easy to spout various speculations about them. On the surface, the story is that Class C had an internal dispute, Sakayanagi probably heard that from somewhere. "I did hear about that but I don't know the details of it". "It seems Dragon Boy-san had a quarrel with his underlings. However, it just didn't make sense to me and I had thought Ayanokouji-kun might have been involved in it". "Why am I involved there? That's because you're decided that this tactician is me, right? From my point of view, it's an unexpected incident. I had thought Class C had it together". "Class C has it together, huh?". "Whether it be via terror or dictatorship, they are together as one aren't they?".

"I see, that might be the case indeed. It seems like Ayanokouji-kun isn't involved then. From what I can see, you aren't injured at all......". It seems she's thoroughly observing my expressions and gestures, but she won't be able to destroy me from there. "It seems an internal dispute might be the truth. It's just, I cannot explain his actions in being so interested in Class D". "There are quite a lot of talented students in Class D after all. In particular, Kouenji is one". "I see. Indeed if it's him, he seems like he would be a suitable opponent for Dragon Boy-san". As a result, Sakayanagi concluded thusly. "I suppose that is fine. Once the 3rd semester begins, I will be able to find out the truth of it all". "Can I change the topic?". Rather than subtly changing the topic, I brazenly changed it. "Yes, of course". And without even an objection, Sakayanagi accepted that. "I've been curious about that thing recently but a few days ago, it seemed like you were getting along with Ichinose. Leaving aside the matter of your own class, I didn't figure you for one to intermingle with other classes". I recalled Sakayanagi and Ichinose getting along and walking together from a while back. To go out of their way to spend the holidays together, it's something that wouldn't have been done if they weren't getting along with each other.

"Fufu. Please stop with the jokes". Perhaps my remark was interesting to her, but Sakayanagi laughs. "She and I........aren't friends you know?". "And this means?". "On the other hand, she thinks Ayanokouji-kun and I are good friends though......". Saying that, she paused for a bit. "Since Class C seems to be obsessing over Class D, I became slightly jealous. To tide over my boredom, I was simply messing with Class B". It seems they were just opponents for her to kill boredom with, it seems. "More importantly, once we enter the 3rd semester, would you mind playing with me then?". "I'm sorry but I don't intend to. If you want to, then please go ahead and play with Horikita and the others". "She's not suitable enough to be my opponent, you know". "Then why not Ryuuen, or the senior students. I'd like you to ignore me". "That's an impossible task. Because without even a single day's delay, I want to fight against Ayanokouji-kun". Even though I told her I had no intention of going along with that, Sakayanagi did not back down. Even if I continue acting modest towards Sakayanagi, it probably wouldn't have any effect. As long as she knows about the White Room, she won't stop hounding me on that.

"If I continued ignoring you, what will you do?". "I would't mind it even so but.....is that really fine I wonder? If Ayanokouji-kun won't become my opponent then that would mean someone else would have to be my opponent in your place. I won't be taking responsibility even if the Class B which is in a cooperative relationship with you right now, just so happens to crumble". "So that idle talk a while ago's going to be involved huh". It seems the meaning behind Sakayanagi approaching Ichinose is that she's begun her attack against Class B. Just how much of it is true? During my conversation with Sakayanagi, I felt a slight sense of fun. "Until you decide to be my opponent, in the meantime, I shall be playing with the people of Class B. A clean hole might open up, and Ayanokouji-kun and the others might be able to naturally rise up to a higher class". Telling only me about her invasion of the enemy. But even so, at this stage, it's better to not conclude that she's really going to be attacking them. It might just be a provocation, or her playing with words. But there's no mistaking that this is a chance. Because if Sakayanagi's eyes are directed away from me towards Ichinose, I might be able to avoid getting caught up in unnecessary conflict. "Can you really win against Ichinose and the others?". "And by this you mean?". "From the time of enrollment until the end of these 2 semesters, Class B's given off the impression of having steadily consolidated its power. On the other hand, Class A's been pulling its own legs. Even if you try to appeal to me that your capabilities are superior your credibility is suspect". "I see. So you think I can say anything I want as long as it's words alone, huh".

Even though Sakayanagi calmly accepted that, she allowed me a slight peek into her feelings. Adding on to that, I will airdrop more fuel. "Recently, I've also come to realize your identity. The fact that you're the daughter of this school's chairman". "So that was the case. Through what circumstances did you come to learn of this?". Sakayanagi snaps. Because it was a topic that she could not help but snap at. "The circumstances don't matter. One thing has become clear. That is the fact that, at the very least, there should have been some influence from your father in regards to you being assigned to Class A. In other words, even if you would have been chosen based on your capabilities, there's no way to say for sure anymore. Even if you start boasting about defeating Ichinose, it's hard to believe that all of a sudden". The student known as Sakayanagi Arisu still has not had her capabilities confirmed to the point of being acknowledged by a third party. "Then how would you explain away the fact that I am in command of the majority in my class?". "Controlling the class? That doesn't speak anything about your capabilities. Even the Ryuuen and Ichinose who you consider inferior to you are doing the same thing. If we're talking about Class D too, Hirata's the same. If we're talking about methods of bringing everyone together, Hirata seems superior and that alone won't serve as proof of one's projected capabilities". Katsun! Letting her cane ring out like that once, Sakayanagi began to revise her approach from a different angle. "I suppose with you as my opponent, such words meant to trick children won't have any effect. I apologize for the rudeness".

Saying that she apologizes once. "However, Ayanokouji-kun. I wonder if you too, aren't being a bit too arrogant. Aren't you just drunk on the fact that you happen to be the first success of the White Room?". Looking at it from Sakayanagi's perspective, I must have looked like that. I haven't thought of it until now, but even if I'm interpreted that way it's something that could't be helped. If one had to pick between two options of either being a success or a failure, then beyond the shadow of a doubt I would be classified as a successful human being. If that were not the case then that man.......my father would not be obsessing over me. "As expected, Ayanokouji-kun seems to be misunderstanding something. Aren't you thinking that the fact that you were 'behind the glass' is something remarkable? Indeed, the amount of knowledge you've accumulated ever since childhood is something out of the ordinary. It seems you're mostly hiding that fact in this school but I'm not doubting the excellency of your academic abilities as well as the excellency of your athletic abilities. However, that place is a facility that was prepared for 'have-nots'. People who are naturally born as geniuses have no need of such a place, it could also be said like that you know?". "That might be the case". I won't deny that. As a matter of fact, my father's conviction is indeed just that. That whether or not you have superior genetics does not matter. By having one undergo thorough education from the moment of their birth, from the amount of time allocated to sleep even to what you're allowed to eat. By regulating each and every single last one of them, a perfect human is sculpted. That this method is the only way to give rise to superior talent that will support Japan. My father believed in that.

"Why do you bear such hostility against me?". "It's because by defeating Ayanokouji-kun, it will also be proof that people absolutely cannot win against natural born talent. That no matter how much effort one puts in, there is a gap that simply cannot be bridged. That is my creed". It means she does not doubt the fact that she herself is a genius. Perhaps she was searching for Sakayanagi, but from behind her, Kamuro slowly approached. "So you were here....hah. Hey, don't just abruptly move away from the promised meeting place. Your legs are bad, you know". Even though she had noticed me, Kamuro did not meet my gaze and only badmouthed Sakayanagi. "I do apologize. I arrived earlier and was merely talking a walk". "Then at least contact me once about it". Since Kamuro's met up with her, she won't carelessly let slip the topic regarding me. It seems Sakayanagi has absolutely no interest in making my capabilities common knowledge. Or more like, it seems more like she dislikes the thought of spreading my story around and having her prey be robbed away from her. "This might be abrupt, Masumi-san, but what do you think about Ichinose Honamisan?". "This really is abrupt.....". Having just met up with her, Kamuro seems to be slightly puzzled by this talk without any context to it. In particular, the fact that I was beside her would have been a contributing factor to making conversation hard on her.

"The thing is, I was just talking with him regarding the strategy to conquer Ichinose-san". "Conquer....huh. Even if you ask me what I think......Ichinose is an honors student and she helps with troubles. A nice person. Something like that?". "That is correct. The part about her being an honors student should be obvious. She always seem to be at the top when it comes to tests, and she's properly brought her class together. What do you think, Ayanokouji-kun?". This time, she asks me. "I'm of the same opinion". I answered like that without delay. "Then, do you think it would be a simple task to defeat such an honors student like Ichinose-san, Masumi-san?". "Shouldn't it be difficult? The unity of Class B seems to be strong so it won't crumble from the outside. Methods like bribery won't work on Ichinose either. There's no other option but frontal attack but even if you say our class is also perfectly organized it's still suspicious". "Indeed at first glance, conquering Ichinose-san seems like a difficult task". "Are you saying that's not the case?". "Yes. The truth is that is not the case. Everybody has their weaknesses. And even that Ichinose-san has them. A decisive weak point". And saying that, Sakayanagi laughs. "The fact that she is an honors student is something the two of you also acknowledge and is undoubtedly the truth. However, aspects like taking care of

problems and being a saint. Are those really coming from her true self? Don't you think there's a side of her that looks down on people deep inside her heart?". "I don't know......it's the the majority of people, at least externally, adopt that sort of attitude. And though their mouths speak kind words, there's no telling what they may be thinking deep inside. But that is not a bad thing. It's obvious that anyone will act in their own self-interest. But, that Ichinose really might be an idiotic saint". Like Kamuro said, the majority of people have a secret side to them. Leaving aside whether or not it's a violent secret side like it is with Kushida, having a darker side should be natural. However, the student known as Ichinose Honami absolutey does not allow anyone to sense that. The fact that Ichinose's weak point has been grasped means, it's related to that? "You don't think so?". "No. She's a prim and proper person. To be more precise, without any falsehood at all, she's filled to the brim with virtue". "So that means she's a seriously idiotic saint, huh?". "That is correct. You are spot on". Sakayanagi answered her like that with a smile. "Then in that case, I wonder if Masumi-san and Ichinose-san happen to be similar?". "Huh? What's that mean? We're completely different, are you being sarcastic?". "That is not true. This may come as a surprise to you but Masumi-san and Ichinose-san are quite similar".

Kamuro continued to deny exasperatedly that they were not similar yet Sakayanagi continued on. "You are similar. As for why, the problem with her and the problem with Masumisan are the 'exact same' after all". "The problem is the same? Wait a minute. What does that mean?". Do you understand, Ayanokouji-kun? Her eyes are asking me that. Since there was no way for me to know, I lightly shook my head and denied it. "Do you not understand? It means your secret which I hold in my hands and the secret she's hiding deep down inside are the same. Of course, only the premise of it is the same and the results are completely different". Having that be explained in such detail to her, something should have clicked within Kamuro. "That Ichinose, did the same thing I did.......?". Not being able to believe it all of a sudden, Kamuro had a complicated expression on her face. "It doesn't seem to be that uncommon of an occurrence". "Did Ichinose tell you that herself? Do you have any basis for saying that?". The state in which Kamuro snapped like that was not normal. I had thought her to be more or less a rational student, but it seems she was unable to ignore that problem Ichinose is said to be carrying. "Naturally. She let me hear of it in detail. She had gently opened up her heart, which had been sealed shut underneath that hard shell of hers, to me. By use of cold reading". Now that's rather courteous of her to explain the details in that explanatory tone.

Cold reading is a part of the art of conversation. Through the use of careful observation ability, it is a method to extract information from the target and grasp it. Strictly speaking, she had probably interlinked it with hot reading in order to approach Ichinose. "People, in order to make themselves look good, readily tell lies. They are such creatures. You and Ichinose-san are only the tip of the iceberg. Surely there are many more. People sure are interesting things. No matter how talented, they always readily make mistakes". Having said that, she returned her gaze to me and concluded thusly. "On top of that, there are also many such aspects that could be considered holes, but in any case I will be crushing the hints to conquering Ichinose-san. I will be thoroughly crushing Ichinose Honami-san. I expect you to take this as proof". It seems she wants me to show her that I can arrive at the truth on my own, but unfortunately for her I'm not interested. I'd like Sakayanagi to go on a rampage to her heart's content. It seems I managed to manipulate her pretty well. Sakayanagi should also be aware of my cheap provocations but it seems she could not help but be triggered by them into answering. "Then, shall we leave, Masumi-san?". Saying that, Sakayanagi and Kamuro started to walk. I too, in order to pass them by, began to walk. And at the moment we truly passed by each other, Sakayanagi opened her mouth.

"But even so, you're not saying anything are you, Masumi-san?". "Huh? About what?". "You saw me and Ayanokouji-kun talking to each other just the two of us, and we were discussing our strategies going forward. But even though that happened, you're not asking any questions about that, are you? Normally it feels like you would throw several questions at me though........". "Huh? What's that supposed to mean? It's just I'm not interested in it at all". "I wonder if that's true? You have the surprising tendency to put into words anything that catches your interest. Yet in this case, that's not evident at all. I wonder why?". Since Kamuro did not answer, Sakayanagi continued. "Could it be, you already possess some information regarding Ayanokouji-kun. And if that's the case, I wonder where you got your hands on such information......could it be, in a place I'm not aware of, the two of you have had a chance to meet each other in private?". Having sniffed out that slight strangeness, Sakayanagi stared at me with sharp eyes. But I neither replied to her with words nor did I return her gaze. If there is a fault to be had, then it lies with Kamuro. "Fufu. I suppose this is fine. Since I'm in a very good mood today I will let this slide. Then, have a pleasant day, Ayanokouji-kun". Saying that, she took Kamuro with her and left. Even during the winter vacation, to be used by Sakayanagi like that, Kamuro has it tough too. I wonder if that means that weakness of hers that was grasped was simply that large. It's just, at the very least it's worth hearing the matter about Ichinose and Kamuro carrying the same problem even if it's only half of it.

At that moment, Sakayanagi stood to gain nothing from lying, but does not mean it would be wise to simply believe Sakayanagi's remark either. If I can learn the truth once Ichinose falls from her current position that's fine too. "Should I let at least Horikita know about it.....whatever should I do". Since they were currently allied with each other, Horikita may move to reinforce Ichinose. Personally I think it's better to leave it be, but the one to decide that is the one leading the class, in other words that role falls to Horikita. I'll directly inform her sometime over the winter vacation. Since I have decided there is no urgency to this matter, I'll hold off on contacting her right away. After that stormy existence had passed, I put on an innocent face and headed back towards the dorm. In order to accomplish my initial objective of delivering the items I had purchased. However, that objective of mine unexpectedly ended quickly. As I arrived at the entrance of Keyaki Mall, I passed by a girl who seemed healthy. Perhaps it was because she was in a rush, but without noticing my presence, she trotted off somewhere. Just in case, as I pursued her, I saw her meeting up with a friend and then her figure disappearing into a shop. I stared at her until she was no longer in sight, and I erased my decision to return to the dorm from my mind. "I guess I'll go see a movie then". I then headed towards the movie theater. Part 2

Coming to the movie theater is not a strange thing for me to do. Because I periodically visit it over the holidays. For people, some may consider the expenditure of points on the appreciation of movies as a waste but it's an unexpectedly important thing to have various interests too. As for me, movie appreciation is becoming a hobby of mine. On top of it being ideal for relaxation, it also allows me to absorb new knowledge. Frequently, I have had my inquisitiveness stimulated by having a movie touch upon various subjects. But even so, it's not like the movie I will be watching today is a movie made with such expertise. It's not a painfully sweet romantic movie that's watched by couples in the midst of Christmas fever either. It's an action movie focusing on a small conflict between countryside mafia. There are days when I simply want to empty my head and watch the story. By the way, although the screening of this movie would end today, by no means is it a longrunning masterpiece. It was a hopeless, B movie. As a result, I was able to reserve a seat with ease over the net but I continued to fret over whether to go watch or not, and ultimately on the last day of its screening, carried by a different purpose, it was a movie I had decided to go watch too. After a brief interaction with the receptionist, I designated the time and movie I'll be watching. I was handed over a laminated sheet with the seating chart printed on it. By the way, a miscalculation occurred here. The seats in the far back I usually use for movie appreciation seemed to be full and there did not appear to be much free space. Just with a slight delay in the screening of the scheduled popular movie, it seems the customers have turned their focus to this movie instead. On top of that, perhaps it's also because Christmas is near, but most of the seats were being reserved in sets of two.

Rather than not watch anything at all as a couple, let's watch at least one. It's probably something like that. Feeling the center of the large opening in the front row would make it easy to watch, I told the operator that. As I did, luckily enough there seemed to be several vacancies in the center region, and I succeeded in securing a seat. I wonder if the popularity of the seats at the far ends have something to do with the presence or absence of couples? I don't know the circumstances of the movie theater in that regard. Since there was still roughly around 20 minutes until the screening starts, I decided to kill time in the corner where pamphlets were displayed. And around 10 minutes before they started admitting people in, I entered alone. From behind with a clatter, student couples enter. Sitting in the center of the front row, I patiently wait for the movie to begin. The seats around me begin to fill up from a relatively early point. I directed my gaze at the screen. Before the actual movie starts, I quite enjoy watching the preliminary announcements of movies soon-to-be screened. That's why before those preliminary announcements occur, I always make sure to be at my seat. Rather than watching it from the TV in my own room, it stirs greater interest in me as to what movies I should watch next. That sort of big screen is extraordinarily charming and it's no exaggeration to say that I've brought myself to the movie theater with that as my purpose. However, right now, in the theater it's not a cheerful movie commercial that's happening but rather commercials of convenience store goods that are being played. Turning over soft and full rice with a spoon or scenes where crispy sea moss is being burned on top of nets. And footage of children eating completed rice balls also played.

As the screening time drew near and the seats began filling up gradually, I became curious as to what sort of situation is unfolding and lookied around. The same row was now mostly filled and to the right of me sat a couple. To the left, one seat over sat another couple. Using the darkness to their advantage, the were holding hands with each other. Even a movie of this quality still manages to bring in couples. Since the seat immediately to my left is still vacant, it would probably end up being a vacant seat up until the end. There's no one who would come and listlessly watch a movie alone the day right before Christmas Eve. At the same time as I placed my phone in silent mode, just in case, I switched the power off as well. Then, around the same time I did that, the lights in the cinema gently dimmed and the preliminary announcement of the movie began. This is the start of the exciting moments. Then with that timing, a shadow fell on me from my left. One student then lowered herself onto the seat. It seems there's yet another odd person like me who came to see a movie alone on the day before Christmas Eve. Just by her choosing this movie alone I'd like to offer her my praise. As I thought that, I let my gaze slide over. ".................". I ended up opening my mouth dumbly without thinking. The identity of that high school student was the student of Class C, Ibuki Mio. Just the day before, on the rooftop, after such a flashy incident occurred, an awkward feeling lingered. Fortunately enough, the lights inside the movie theater have already been turned off. Not noticing me, Ibuki directed her gaze towards the screen. I'm in the camp of those who watch the movie until the end credits have finished playing, but if I stay until the very end the lights may come back on. No helping it, today I'll be

retreating as soon as the end credits roll. However, I had a single miscalculation here. That is, a problem that frequently occurs in movie theaters with the 'armrest'. If I were in the corner, I would have been able to surely make exclusive use of both the left and right armrests. However, in seats other than the corner, it's always a battle for possession of the armrest. As far as movie theater rules go, there are no regulations determining which armrest is whose and in a lot of cases, the early bird gets the worm. Since the couple that had arrived before I did were already making use of the armrest on my right, I had thought to use the armrest on my left but Ibuki casually placed her elbow on said armrest. It's not like there wasn't enough shared room on the armrest for two, but just with minor things, elbow and elbow would end up touching. Perhaps she became aware of that, but Ibuki as though she were unconsciously trying to confirm the other side, looked towards me. Naturally, since I was observing everything, our eyes met. "Geh". The voice that came out right away was such a disgusted sound from Ibuki. Due to the commercials and the preliminary arrangements going silent miraculously at that moment, I was able to hear that quite well. "It's a coincidence, huh". Feeling that not saying anything in itself would be quite unnatural, I called out to her. However, without answering me, Ibuki averted her gaze. It seems she intends on ignoring me.

That, too, lets me come to a clean decision that this makes things easier for me. Thinking that, I concentrated on the screen. However........ Ever since the screening started, I could feel a fixed gaze at me from Ibuki's side. Perhaps she was considerably curious regarding my presence, but it doesn't seem like she's focusing much on the movie. Why don't you watch the movie properly? Is what I would like to ask her but as long as I can't speak in a loud voice during screening that would prove difficult. Then should I try whispering into her ear? No, if I do such a thing, Ibuki might snap at me. Here I should simply endure Ibuki's gaze and spend the time pretending to not care. Fortunately, ever since childhood, I had been used to being 'monitored'. Not letting anything I've realized in my mind show on the surface, I watched the movie. It's just if there is a problem, it's that the movie itself is not a very good one. Truly a B movie. Ever since the screening began, isn't it about time to stop being so repetitive, I wonder. From now on, in order to attack the enemy, the protagonist is about to storm the enemy territory and just before that climax. Just before the scene that would make one's palms sweaty, suddenly the screen blacked out. At first thinking that it was some sort of performance, the students remained silent and continued to watch the screen. However, no matter whether we waited for 10 seconds or 20 seconds, neither the picture nor the sound showed any signs of progressing. This is strange? As I began thinking that, an announcement rang out inside the hall. "We apologize for this inconvenience. Due to trouble with the equipment, the screening will be halted temporarily. This may be an inconvenience but please stand by for a few moments".

That announcement came forth. Even as students voiced their complaints all at once, it seems they've decided to quietly chat away while waiting. "Somehow I'm not in luck.....". As though she were directing it at me, Ibuki said that with a sigh. Does she mean to say the fault for the trouble with the equipment lies with me? "It's also unexpected for me. To think you'd come to the movies today". Towards me, she replied. "It's none of your business when and what timing I come at, right?". Perhaps she didn't like what I said, but she naturally gave me a rebuttal. "Likewise". That's why I answered like that to match her in the end. "You're...........". Saying something and then closing her mouth again for a moment, Ibuki opened her mouth once again with a strong gaze. "Up until now, you've been secretly mocking me deep down inside. I cannot forgive that fact". It's not like I don't understand Ibuki's feelings of anger, but she has no right to hold a grudge against me. Even if I comfort her, even if I say that's not the case, such follow ups won't work on Ibuki. That was why I chose to adopt the best policy. "That is power, Ibuki". "Huh........?".

Only a part of the theater, between me and Ibuki, an uneasy atmosphere flowed. Of course, it came from Ibuki's side. A sharp gaze was leveled at me filled with irritation and rage. But, without minding her, I continued speaking. "No matter what the situation is, if you only had the power to overcome your opponent, it wouldn't have become a problem, isn't that right? Just because your opponent happened to be somewhat hiding their abilities, that alone should not have caused you to pay any heed. If you had stopped me, Ryuuen and the others could have won. At the very least, it could have been brought to end in a draw". If after saying those caustic words, I had been beaten down on that rooftop, there would have been nothing lamer than that. "That is.........". That is something Ibuki absolutely cannot refute. That is one's strength. Whether your opponent is hiding their abilities or not, that should have been a trifling matter. "Besides, unlike Ryuuen and Sakayanagi, I have no intention of aiming for the upper classes nor do I have any intention of standing out through a one-man play. Naturally, because I don't want to stand out, I won't be showing off any unnecessary abilities. The fact that I fought against Ryuuen too, was a choice I had made after weighing my options on a scale and having decided there's no other choice. To mock my opponents, or look down on them, I've never even once thought of doing so". This is not something I'm saying to comfort Ibuki. In a sense, Ibuki may be feeling even more humiliated than ever before. To humiliate one's opponent, that is in other words, to not even acknowledge them as a threat. But, what I'm trying to say is that to me, Ibuki is just like a stone on the side of the road.